The BMW X1 is an outstanding luxury subcompact SUV. This crossover has a lot of tempting features, such as a huge load capacity and an easy-to-use infotainment system. On the performance front, this BMW stands out because of its powerful engine, lively handling, and excellent gas mileage. It has a few flaws, such as some low-quality cabin components and a stiff ride, but it’s still an appealing vehicle.
Major Changes Over The Years
Here are the significant modifications to the X1 since BMW redesigned it in 2016:
- In 2017, the front-wheel-drive base model was introduced.
- In 2018, a standard rearview camera was included.
- In 2019, the infotainment system will acquire a touch screen, as well as extra standard and available options.
- In 2020, the 8.8-inch touchscreen replaced the 6.5-inch display; the external appearance was revised.
- In 2021, satellite radio became standard.
Engine
The X1 has a single engine and transmission combination: a 228-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder paired with an eight-speed automated transmission. The turbo four provides lots of power while being fuel efficient. The conventional drivetrain is front-wheel drive. The optional all-wheel-drive system prioritizes the front wheels, while up to 100 percent of the engine’s energy can flow to the rear for brief periods in low-traction circumstances. The BMW X1 can do it all: commute down the highway, go to the grocery store, or accelerate swiftly from a red light.
Those who remember BMW’s Ultimate Driving Machine days will recognize the X1 as a vehicle from that period. It’s all-wheel-drive system provides agility and confidence on bumpy roads, and it’s backed up with fast steering and good brakes. It’s an SUV, but it drives like a sporty hatchback. The turbocharged engine’s power delivery is smooth and sufficient.
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Performance
This vehicle is reasonably enjoyable to drive. When equipped with the M Sport suspension, it handles turns like a sports sedan. However, upgrading the suspension might diminish ride comfort by causing more severe bumps and dips to jostle the cabin’s occupants. The X1 accelerates to 60 mph in 6.4 seconds, which is among the fastest times in its class. All of this would be for waste if the X1 did not perform effectively at slower speeds; it is remarkably easy to drive in routine driving. The eight-speed automatic transmission provides rapid and responsive shifts.
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Interior
The interior of the X1 is well equipped, with high-quality materials. However, the glove box door is as flimsy as a plastic lunchbox, and the container buried under the front seat, while functional, appears to have been purchased in bulk from a dollar store fire sale. The cockpit is designed with the driver in mind, emphasizing the X1’s dynamic nature. A businesslike gauge cluster that has an attractive appearance, and is easy to read at a glance, faces the driver. Although the driving position is excellent, the steering-wheel adjustments could benefit from a broader range of motion in both angles and reach. The cargo space is carpeted, chrome-trimmed, and spacious. With the back seat folded, 19 total carry-on bags can fit, whereas seven carry-on cases can fit behind the second row.
The BMW X1 boasts a stylish cabin filled with luxury materials for the most part. Dakota leather and chrome accents are examples of premium materials used in some models. There are a few harsh plastics, but they’re in places you won’t notice, like the bin beneath the front seat.
The climate controls are old-school hard buttons and knobs that are simple to use and do an excellent job of managing cabin temperature. Rear air vents ensure that backseat passengers receive adequate ventilation. The cabin is also among the quietest in the class. Only light wind and road noise can be heard. The engine is extremely silent when idling and only produces a noise when pushed hard.
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Infotainment
The iDrive infotainment system from BMW is simple to use. It can be operated via a console-mounted dial or a touch screen, both of which are responsive and well-placed, making it easy to use while driving. Although Apple CarPlay is standard, Android Auto is not.
The X1 has just enough technology to stay current without pushing the envelope. Most people will be satisfied with the ordinary audio system, although discriminating audiophiles may notice a lack of richness. The voice controls use natural language rather than a rigorous command structure, so you don’t have to memorize a rigid command structure, but they lack the depth of Mercedes’ MBUX system.
Standard infotainment features: an 8.8-inch touch screen, Apple CarPlay, satellite radio, a seven-speaker stereo, a USB port, and Bluetooth
Available infotainment features: navigation, wireless device charging, and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon stereo
Additional standard features: push-button start and automatic climate control
Other available features: proximity keyless entry and a panoramic moonroof.
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Fuel Economy
The front-wheel-drive BMW X1 sDrive28i gets 24 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway, according to the EPA. Those are respectable statistics for the luxury subcompact SUV segment. The xDrive28i all-wheel-drive achieves 23 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.
Safety Features
Key safety features include:
- Standard forward-collision warning
- Standard lane-departure warning
- Standard automatic high-beam headlamps
Verdict
The X1 is precisely what one would expect it to be. It upholds the BMW brand’s sporty fundamental qualities while remaining one of the segment’s most practical subcompact SUVs. It has plenty of cargo room and passenger space, as well as a fun-to-drive personality. However, if you prefer a more comfortable ride, a more trendy interior, or cutting-edge technology, you should look at other strong options in this class.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the BMW X1 a good used SUV?
The X1 is a great used SUV. It boasts a powerful engine, agile handling, and a rather comfortable ride. The seats are pleasant, and there isn’t much trunk space in comparable luxury subcompact SUVs. There are numerous common and available technological features, the majority of which are user-friendly. In short, this BMW boasts a vast list of advantages and nearly no disadvantages.
Is the BMW X1 reliable?
The 2021 BMW X1 is expected to get a reliability rating of 75 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the best, 81-90 is considered great, 70-80 is considered acceptable, and 0-69 is considered fair and below average.
Where is the BMW X1 manufactured?
BMW manufactures the X1 in Germany.
How many people can the X1 accommodate?
The BMW X1 can seat five people. Standard features include synthetic leather upholstery and eight-way power-adjustable front seats. Genuine leather upholstery, heated front seats, front sport seats, sliding and reclining rear seats, and a heated steering wheel are all options.
What is the price of the BMW X1?
The entry-level BMW X1 for 2021 costs $35,400. Adding xDrive all-wheel drive raises the price to $37,400. That is standard procedure in the class.
